Trump Calls Iran War ‘Effectively Over’ as Midterms Humiliation Puts Republicans Under Pressure
Strikes paused, blockade remains
Speaking at the White House, Trump said the US would hold off on threatened attacks at the request of countries bordering Iran. He named Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Kuwait, among others.
Attacks continue in region
Clashes have persisted, though at less than full intensity. Iranian state media reported that the US struck Iran’s Qeshm island overnight, while Tehran had hit tankers in the Gulf and Strait of Hormuz earlier this month. Iran-aligned Houthis in Yemen have also increased attacks on Saudi Arabia in recent months.
War weighs on election
The war’s unpopularity, along with higher gasoline prices and broader economic effects, helped Democrats win the midterms. Vice president JD Vance attributed the Republicans’ historic defeat to the conflict, saying it had raised Americans’ cost of living. Senior US and Gulf officials have expressed doubt that an agreement is imminent.
Dispute over possible talks
Before the meeting, Iranian security council chief Mohsen Rezaei urged the US to stop what he called “manufacturing fake news about imaginary talks” in a post on X. He said Washington should accept Iran’s seven stated conditions. The US has repeatedly rejected Iran’s plan. Secretary of state Marco Rubio described it as “outrageous and ridiculous and really not realistic.”
Key points
- Trump said the Iran war was “effectively over” and paused threatened US strikes.
- The US will keep its naval blockade in the Strait of Hormuz.
- Fighting continues, including reported strikes and attacks on tankers.
- The war and its economic effects contributed to Democrats’ midterm victory.